Entertainment One extends reach

Distrib expands biz into Scandi, South Africa

TORONTO — Global film and TV content distrib Entertainment One, which recently rebranded as eOne, announced Wednesday that it’s expanding its home-entertainment biz into Scandinavia and South Africa.

Similar to its moves in France, Australia and New Zealand earlier this year, the latest expansion will see Toronto-based eOne’s international TV division handle sales to digital outlets and local broadcasters. DVD titles will be released through local partners Svensk Filmindustri in Scandinavia and Next Entertainment in South Africa.

“The addition of these two markets aligns with our ongoing expansion strategy that we began rolling out earlier this year,” said eOne filmed entertainment prexy Patrice Theroux. “This model allows us to establish our brand in multiple territories without the significant costs associated with an acquisition.”

Svensk Filmindustri is involved in production and theatrical, home video and TV distribution. Next Entertainment services South African retail and rental markets and has licenses with 20th Century Fox and National Geographic among others.